According to the South Dakota Department of Health, alcohol-related deaths remain a major public health concern. While the state saw a slight decrease in these deaths in 2022 and 2023, the numbers rose by 19% from 306 deaths in 2023 to 365 deaths in 2024. Adults between the ages of 30 and 69 are most at risk, with individuals aged 50–59 representing the largest share and highest rate of alcohol-related deaths.
Opioids and stimulants continue to drive most overdose deaths in the state. Methamphetamine is the most common stimulant involved, while fentanyl remains the leading opioid contributing to unintentional and undetermined overdose deaths.
To address these challenges, South Dakota has implemented several prevention and treatment initiatives. Through State Opioid Response (SOR) grants, the state supports community education, media awareness campaigns, and participation in the PharmaDrop Program. This program partners with DEA-registered collectors (such as pharmacies, law enforcement agencies, and long-term care facilities) to safely dispose of unused medications.
The state has also expanded access to overdose reversal agents and education programs. Funding from SOR and other sources has helped grow the Opioid Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution (OEND) program, which has successfully reversed opioid overdoses for more than 1,200 individuals. These programs educate communities on recognizing and responding to overdoses and distribute naloxone, a medication that can save lives.